The Government has released a roadmap of the Renters’ Rights Act implementation.
The first phase coming into force on 1st May 2026 will;
– abolish section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions
– introduce Assured Periodic Tenancies in the private rented sector (PRS)
– reform possession grounds in the PRS so they are fair for both parties
– limit rent increases to once a year in the PRS
– ban rental bidding and rent in advance
– make it illegal to discriminate against renters who have children or receive benefits
– require landlords in the PRS to consider tenant requests to rent with a pet
– strengthen both local council enforcement and rent repayment orders
(Note, new investigatory powers giving local councils a stronger ability to inspect properties, demand documents, and access third-party data to crack down on rogue landlords and enforce housing standards more effectively will come into effect on 27 December 2025)
Phase 2 & 3
Phase 2 will introduce the PRS Database and PRS Landlord Ombudsman. This is expected in two key stages, beginning from late 2026.
Phase 3 will introduce a new Decent Homes Standard in the PRS, proposed to be brought into force from 2035 or 2037.
A Message from SWLA
This is good news for landlords. We finally have a date (and details) so we can get prepared.
For now, we recommend that all members read the following;
Guide to the Renters’ Rights Act;
Guide to the Renters’ Rights Act – GOV.UK
Renters’ Rights Act 2025: Implementation roadmap;
Implementing the Renters’ Rights Act 2025: Our roadmap for reforming the private rented sector